The Melanie Kareem Middle Eastern Dance School

Since 1998, Melanie’s has taught hundreds of girls, teens and women ranging in ages from 4 to 75 the art and grace of belly dancing. Melanie and her dance school performed for many local events including Earthday, Topanga Days, The Elementary School Halloween Carnival, The Theatricum Botanicum , The Mermaid, and Froggies. Jamie and musicians under his direction have collaborated with her on many of these performances. For the most recent Earthday 2005 performance, Jamie composed 2 pieces including Tablah al Topanga and was the lead percussionist for their show. (See solo percussion). Jamie and Melanie currently lead a live drum and dance class every Saturday at noon in Topanga Canyon . Jamie and Melanie also perform regularly for private parties and events. Jamie has also performed at private parties and events with a few of Melanie’s top students.         

  In 2003, Melanie formed a Dance Company called We Are Baladi. They have performed with The Yuval Ron Ensemble on numerous occasions including The Getty Center, Brandies Bardin Institute and West LA College.